We review 'Snow White and The Huntsman' starring Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and our very own Charlize Theron.

First time director Rupert Sanders’ interpretation of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’ drastically alters the fantasy world of the original tale. The comical aspect of Disney’s dwarves is removed (apart from the odd one-liner from the brilliant Nick Frost) and Chris Hemsworth’s ‘Huntsman’ is added to the story to provide a gritty male lead alongside the traditional beauty of Snow White.

In this adaptation, Snow White’s character overcomes obstacles to become a warrior in the Joan of Arc mould and Chris Hemsworth is the man sent to kill her, who becomes an ally in a twist on the traditional tale. Most of the original elements are still present, ranging from the poisoned apple to the ‘Mirror Mirror on the wall’ scene and there are homages to Disney’s original dwarves.

WIth Twilight’s Kristen Stewart in the title role, Charlize Theron as the evil queen and small roles for Ray Winstone and Bob Hoskins, the film doesn’t lack top quality actors. What it does lack however, is a script worthy of their talents, the dwarves are criminally underused and Hemsworth’s lacklustre ‘Huntsman’ spends so much time on screen that the brutal impact that his character could have is removed entirely. Stewart does nothing wrong in her role of fugitive turned warrior yet upon delivery of her most important lines in the film when inspiring her troops, it is hard to feel convinced she could rouse anyone into battle.

Although the film falls down in regards to character development, aesthetically it is clear no expense was spared. The dystopian kingdom, reminiscent of the scenery in John Hillcoat’s The Road reflects the mood of the film perfectly, an encounter with a troll doesn’t disappoint and Theron’s evil queen blends in and out of CGI form seamlessly.

Theron’s obvious beauty along with the bile in every line she speaks works perfectly and it is no coincidence that the Queen is the true star of the show. The visuals which accompany her presence on screen are breathtaking and the film is worth seeing solely for her outrageous milk bath near the start.

With fight scenes choreographed at breakneck pace and astounding visuals, but lacking any real exploration of character, Snow White and The Huntsman is entertaining yet forgettable.